Legal Associate Grade 7

Role Overview & Responsibilities

We are seeking a Legal Associate to join our increasingly successful IP team. The role will be central to the successful management of University IP assets arising primarily from research and teaching activities and will sit within the IP Commercialisation team.

A key function of the IP Commercialisation team is to support the University's ambitions in creating a new approach to IP exploitation to maximise opportunities for impact and income generation, including the creation of an enterprising environment and culture.

The IP Commercialisation team is responsible for patent filings and management of the University's patent portfolio and associated patent budget. The team also evaluates and markets IP and undertakes commercial licensing activities, including post-contract management and royalty distribution. The team manages the University's spin-out processes, reports to the University's Enterprise Board regarding overall performance, company investments and equity realisation and also manages the University's Enterprise Investment Fund.

The main aim of this role is to assist with the drafting of IP related contracts, provide advice and support to the IP Commercialisation Managers and other University stakeholders regarding all aspects of IP protection and licensing/other contracts throughout the commercialisation process. You will be part of a newly created IP legal support function and will be responsible for assisting in the development of best practise within the team.

You should have a degree (or equivalent qualification or relevant professional experience). A law degree is preferred. This post is available until 31 July 2025, subject to funding.

The University has the right to close the vacancy early if it is deemed that there have been enough applications received